Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup

Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup is a delightful, hearty dish perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and comforting ingredients, this soup brings the taste of Italian cuisine right to your table. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a cozy weeknight dinner, this slow cooker recipe ensures you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying good company.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: Just throw everything in the slow cooker, set it, and let it do the work.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef, beans, and spices creates a deliciously satisfying broth.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or add more beans for extra nutrition.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the pasta and beans, making it a hit at family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-free cooking, resulting in tender meats and infused flavors over hours.
• Skillet: Great for browning meat before adding it to the slow cooker for enhanced flavor.
• Chef’s knife: Essential for chopping vegetables evenly, ensuring they cook uniformly in your soup.

Ingredients

For the Meat and Beans

• 1 pound ground beef
• 15 oz can cannellini beans
• 1 15 oz can dark red kidney beans

For the Vegetables

• 1 onion chopped
• 2 carrots cubed
• 2 stalks celery chopped

For the Pasta and Broth

• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• 32 oz beef broth
• 28 oz crushed tomatoes

For Seasoning

• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp basil
• 1 tsp thyme
• 2 cloves garlic chopped

How to Make Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess fat before adding it to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Add the browned ground beef into your slow cooker. Then include:
* Crushed tomatoes
* Bay leaves
* Oregano
* Basil
* Thyme

Mix well.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Beans

Next, add:
* Chopped onion
* Cubed carrots
* Chopped celery
Then add both cans of beans, stirring gently to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Pour in Broth

Pour over the mixture with:
* Beef broth

Make sure everything is well combined. Add additional water if necessary to ensure all ingredients are covered.

Step 5: Cook on Low or High Heat

Add bay leaves into the soup. Cover with a lid and cook:
– On low for 4 hours or
– On high for 2 hours

Step 6: Add Pasta Before Serving

About 30 minutes before serving, remove the lid and stir in:
* Ditalini pasta

Cover again and allow it to cook for an additional 30 minutes until pasta is tender.

Step 7: Serve Hot!

Once cooked, give it a final stir. Remove bay leaves before serving hot bowls of Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup. Enjoy!

How to Serve Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup

Serving Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup can elevate your meal experience. This hearty soup pairs well with a variety of accompaniments that enhance its flavors and texture.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
• Garlic Bread – Enjoy toasted garlic bread to add an aromatic touch that complements the soup.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Parmesan cheese and croutons balances the richness of the soup.
• Mediterranean Salad – Fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese provide a refreshing contrast.

Include Toppings

• Grated Parmesan Cheese – A sprinkle of Parmesan adds a rich flavor to each bowl.
• Fresh Parsley – Chopped parsley not only enhances presentation but also adds freshness.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup

To ensure your Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and quality ground beef make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Brown the Meat Thoroughly – Browning the ground beef enhances its flavor before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste the broth before serving; you may want to adjust seasonings for personal preference.
• Let it Simmer Longer – For deeper flavor, allow the soup to cook longer on low heat if time permits.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Knots – Soft and buttery knots drizzled with garlic oil are perfect for sopping up soup.
2. Caprese Skewers – Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a fresh bite.
3. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with rice and herbs add color and nutrition to your plate.
4. Vegetable Spring Rolls – Crunchy spring rolls filled with fresh veggies offer a delightful crunch alongside the soup.
5. Cheesy Polenta Cakes – Creamy polenta cakes baked until golden brown make for a comforting side dish.
6. Roasted Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus roasted until tender adds elegance to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Not browning the beef properly: Failing to brown the ground beef can lead to a less flavorful soup. Always brown your meat until it’s cooked through and slightly caramelized.

• Skipping the seasoning: Overlooking seasonings means missing out on the soup’s rich flavor. Be generous with herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, and add them before cooking.

• Adding pasta too early: If you add ditalini pasta at the start, it may become mushy. Wait until the last 30 minutes of cooking to maintain its texture.

• Ignoring vegetable sizes: Cutting vegetables into uneven sizes can lead to inconsistent cooking. Make sure to chop your onions, carrots, and celery uniformly for even results.

• Using low-quality broth: Not all broths are created equal. Opt for a good quality beef broth that enhances the overall taste of your soup.

• Not letting it cook long enough: Rushing the cooking process can result in underdeveloped flavors. Allow sufficient time on low heat for all ingredients to meld together beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in a covered dish for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup:

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option while still enjoying this delicious soup.

What can I substitute for ditalini pasta?

You can use any small pasta shape like elbow macaroni or even gluten-free pasta if necessary.

How do I make Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Add more beans or legumes for protein.

Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better when made ahead of time as the flavors continue to develop overnight.

How spicy is this pasta e fagioli soup?

This recipe is mild but you can easily add red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you prefer some heat!

What goes well with Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup?

Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy!

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup is both hearty and comforting. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with different veggies or proteins, it’s sure to be a hit at your table!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the comforting warmth of Olive Garden Copycat Pasta E Fagioli Slow Cooker Soup, a delightful dish that brings the essence of Italian cuisine right to your home. This hearty soup is a perfect blend of ground beef, beans, and aromatic vegetables simmered to perfection in a savory broth. Ideal for cozy weeknight dinners or hosting family gatherings, this recipe allows you to set it and forget it while you enjoy quality time with loved ones. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 15 oz can cannellini beans
• 15 oz can dark red kidney beans
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, cubed
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• 32 oz beef broth
• 28 oz crushed tomatoes
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp basil
• 1 tsp thyme
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped

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Instructions

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat; drain excess fat.
2. Transfer the beef to a slow cooker; add crushed tomatoes, bay leaves, oregano, basil, and thyme.
3. Stir in the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and both cans of beans.
4. Pour in the beef broth and ensure ingredients are well combined; add extra water if needed.
5. Cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours.
6. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in ditalini pasta; cover and cook until tender.
7. Remove bay leaves before serving hot.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours on low (or 2 hours on high)
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg